Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051 is more than just a holster; it’s a commitment to security, accessibility, and professional performance. This meticulously crafted holster from Safariland blends advanced retention technology with a classic aesthetic. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention provide peace of mind without sacrificing a smooth, intuitive draw.
As a seasoned professional in the tactical gear world, I’ve spent years searching for the ideal balance between security and speed. Many holsters offer one, but few master both. My quest for a holster that provided Level III retention without feeling like I was wrestling my firearm led me to the Safariland 6360.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360, I was immediately struck by the quality of the Cordovan leather. The stitching was clean, the leather felt durable yet supple, and the overall construction exuded confidence. It felt like a serious piece of kit, built to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Compared to other Level III retention holsters I’ve used from Blackhawk and Bianchi, the Safariland 6360 stood out for its streamlined design. Many retention holsters feel bulky and cumbersome, but the 6360 offered a surprisingly slim profile thanks to its Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). This placed the firearm in a comfortable, accessible position closer to the body. My previous Level II holster from Safariland, while functional, lacked the additional security I now needed in my role.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the design looked promising, I knew the true test would be in its performance under real-world conditions. I was excited to see if the ALS lived up to the hype, and if the holster truly delivered on its promise of both security and a smooth, straight-up draw.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I specifically wanted to evaluate the ALS and Level III retention under controlled stress. I ran several repetitions with dummy rounds, followed by live fire exercises, to gauge the holster’s performance under pressure.
The Safariland 6360 performed admirably in both dry and live fire drills. The ALS release was intuitive and required minimal conscious thought after only a few repetitions. Even in wet conditions, the grip remained secure, and the draw was consistently smooth. There was a slight learning curve with the hood guard release, but after a few draws, it became second nature.
After the first range session, the only issue I noticed was some minor initial stiffness in the leather. This was easily resolved with a little break-in and some leather conditioner. Otherwise, the Safariland 6360 exceeded my expectations, providing a level of security without compromising speed or accessibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training scenarios and field exercises, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The Cordovan leather has held up beautifully, showing only minimal signs of wear. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth release.
The holster has been subjected to various weather conditions, including rain, mud, and extreme heat, without any degradation in performance. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning. Compared to my previous nylon holsters, the Safariland 6360 is significantly easier to maintain and shows far less wear.
Having used other Level III retention holsters in the past, I can confidently say that the Safariland 6360 outperforms them in both security and ease of use. It has become an indispensable piece of my everyday gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051 is a duty-grade holster designed for professionals who require a high level of security and reliable performance. This particular model is designed for right-handed users and is finished in a plain Cordovan leather. It accommodates firearms such as the Sig Sauer P229 and P228.
Key Specifications:
- Retention Level: Level III
- Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System)
- Material: Leather (Plain Cordovan Finish)
- Handedness: Right Hand
- Mounting: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop)
- Compatibility: Sig Sauer P229, P228
The ALS is crucial because it automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, providing an additional layer of protection against unauthorized removal. The Ride UBL positions the holster lower on the belt, allowing for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in providing a secure and accessible carry solution for duty firearms. The ALS retention system is intuitive to operate. It allows for a rapid and smooth draw once the release is activated. The Level III retention offers superior security compared to Level I or II holsters.
The primary strength lies in the balance between security and speed. The holster provides a high degree of weapon retention without sacrificing draw speed or ease of use. A minor weakness is the potential learning curve for users unfamiliar with the ALS system, although this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 features a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body. The Cordovan leather provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance while offering excellent durability. The Ride UBL ensures a comfortable carry position, even during extended periods of wear.
The holster is user-friendly, with an intuitive ALS release and a smooth, straight-up draw. There is a slight learning curve associated with the hood guard, but this is easily mastered with practice. The build quality is exceptional. The materials used are durable, and the overall construction inspires confidence.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The Cordovan leather is resistant to abrasions and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should last for many years.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning of the leather. The ALS mechanism can be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation. The Safariland 6360 is designed for easy maintenance and repair, with replacement parts readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes standard with a hood guard for added security. An optional Sentry device can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV. The Ride UBL can be replaced with other belt attachments, such as a drop leg platform or a MOLLE adapter, to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.
The Safariland 6360 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including weapon lights and optic mounts. The holster can be customized to accommodate different firearms through the use of Safariland’s modular holster system.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051
Pros
- Level III Retention provides excellent weapon security.
- ALS offers an intuitive and smooth draw.
- Ride UBL provides a comfortable and ergonomic carry position.
- Durable Cordovan leather construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories.
Cons
- Initial learning curve for the ALS and hood guard release.
- Cordovan leather requires regular maintenance to prevent drying and cracking.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon security and reliable performance in a duty holster. It is ideal for those who carry a Sig Sauer P229 or P228 and prefer a traditional leather holster. This holster is also well-suited for individuals who appreciate a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Those who prioritize concealment over open carry or require a holster for a different firearm model should skip this product. Individuals who are not willing to perform regular leather maintenance may also want to consider a synthetic holster option.
A must-have accessory for the Safariland 6360 is a high-quality leather conditioner to maintain the Cordovan finish. Consider the optional Sentry device for added security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051
In summary, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, accessibility, and reliability. The ALS retention system, combined with the durable Cordovan leather construction, makes this holster a standout choice for professionals and discerning firearm owners.
At $195.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials, advanced retention technology, and long-lasting performance. This is an investment in your safety and professional image.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Right Hand 6360-74-051 to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and professional duty holster. Don’t settle for anything less than the best. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.